Wi-Fi Information

Wi-Fi Information

The radiofrequency band has widespread use and the public has been exposed to these frequencies for decades, however wireless communication systems (Wi-Fi) is a relatively new application of the radiofrequency (RF) band. Many other technologies use the RF band, including cell phones, television and radio, home cordless phones, and microwave ovens. Exposure to RF from Wi-Fi represents only a small proportion of a person’s exposure to RF. Research indicates that exposure to RFs from Wi-Fi is very low – 1000 times or more below exposure guidelines in Safety Code 6.

The spectrum of electromagnetic frequencies is divided into non-ionizing and ionizing bands. The ionizing bands and ultraviolet radiation frequencies are of most concern as they are known to be carcinogenic. The RF band is a band of non-ionizing radiation that ranges from 3 kilohertz to 300,000 megahertz and lacks sufficient energy to break chemical bonds. Wi-Fi exposure research demonstrates that a child typically using a laptop with a wireless router receives less than 1% of the specific absorption rate for a typical mobile phone. In addition, the maximum and median Wi-Fi exposures are significantly below limits set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection.Extensive reviews conducted by the Health Protection Agency in the United Kingdom, Health Canada, the Royal Society of Canada and Public Health Ontario on the potential effects of Wi-Fi conclude that there is no evidence of health risks associated with exposure to Wi-Fi.

The weight of evidence shows that as long as exposure to radiofrequency energy emitted from Wi-Fi equipment in schools is below the safety limits established by Health Canada, there is no convincing scientific proof that this equipment is dangerous to students. In fact, there is profuse research concluding that Wi-Fi exposure is not only well within recommended limits, but is only a small fraction (less than 1%) of what is received during typical use of cellular phones.Other Resources: